Ledsham Goldenrod Solidago 'Ledsham'
ABOUT
The Solidago 'Ledsham', commonly known as the Ledsham goldenrod, is a plant characterized by its attractive and vibrant features. It presents a bushy, upright clump of green foliage. The leaves are generally elongated, with a slightly toothed margin, and they are notable for their dense, hair-like texture, which gives them a somewhat rough feel to the touch. During its blooming period, the Ledsham goldenrod becomes particularly striking due to its abundant, showy flower spikes. These flower clusters are dense, elongated, and plume-like, typically appearing in a bright, golden-yellow color. The individual flowers are small but numerous, contributing to the inflorescences that stand like feathery wands above the foliage, adding a splash of color that is highly attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The overall appearance of the Ledsham goldenrod is one of a radiant, eye-catching plant that can bring a golden hue to a garden setting, especially when planted en masse. Its visual appeal throughout its flowering season makes it a popular choice among garden enthusiasts who wish to add a bright and cheerful element to their landscapes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Ledsham Goldenrod
Common names
Solidago 'Ledsham'.
ToxicityTo humans
Goldenrod, which includes the Solidago 'Ledsham', is generally not considered toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting goldenrod, and it is not known to contain any significant toxic substances that would cause harm to people.
To pets
Goldenrod, also known as Solidago 'Ledsham', is not known to be toxic to pets. It is not listed among commonly recognized poisonous plants for dogs, cats, or other domestic animals. Therefore, ingestion of goldenrod is unlikely to cause symptoms of poisoning or serious consequences in pets. However, as with any non-food plant, individual animals may have varying sensitivities, and ingestion can sometimes lead to mild gastrointestinal upset.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Spread
2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Solidago 'Ledsham', commonly known as Goldenrod, is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which can help with the pollination of gardens and ecosystems.
- Aesthetic value: Goldenrod adds a vibrant yellow hue to gardens and landscapes with its abundant, showy flower spikes, enhancing the visual appeal through late summer and autumn.
- Erosion control: The plant's dense and fibrous root system stabilizes soil, helping to reduce erosion on slopes and in areas with loose soil.
- Drought resistance: Once established, Goldenrod is relatively drought-tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water-use gardens.
- Wildlife habitat: It provides food and habitat for various species of wildlife, including birds who feed on its seeds in the winter.
- Adaptable growth: Goldenrod is adaptable to a range of soil types and conditions, making it a versatile choice for different garden settings.
- Seasonal interest: In addition to its late flowering period, some varieties of Goldenrod provide attractive fall foliage, contributing to the autumnal garden palette.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Production: The Solidago, commonly known as goldenrod, can be used to create natural dyes, with various parts of the plant yielding different shades such as yellow or green.
- Garden Design: Goldenrod adds a vertical element and bright splash of color to perennial borders and wildflower gardens, often attracting butterflies and pollinators.
- Erosion Control: Its extensive root system makes goldenrod a good choice for stabilizing soil and controlling erosion on slopes or in areas prone to soil degradation.
- Companion Planting: Goldenrod can be planted in vegetable gardens to attract beneficial insects that prey on garden pests, although care must be taken to manage its growth.
- Floral Arrangements: Fresh or dried, the showy flower spikes of goldenrod can be used in floral arrangements for their vibrant color and texture.
- Craft Projects: The stems and flowers of goldenrod can be used in a variety of craft projects, including wreath-making and as filler in handmade paper.
- Wildlife Habitat: Goldenrod provides food in the form of nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, and shelter for small animals.
- Livestock Feed: In some areas, goldenrod is used as an emergency forage for livestock, although it is not the first choice due to its lower palatability and nutritional content.
- Educational Use: As an indigenous North American plant, goldenrod can be used for educational purposes, teaching about native plant species and their roles in local ecosystems.
- Bioremediation: Goldenrod has some potential in bioremediation efforts to restore health to ecosystems affected by pollution or human activity by aiding soil health.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Solidago, commonly known as Goldenrod, is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Goldenrod is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Encouragement and growth - Solidago, commonly known as Goldenrod, is often associated with encouragement and personal growth, perhaps due to its resilient nature and the way it thrives in various conditions.
- Good fortune - Goldenrod symbolizes good luck, making it a positive emblem for those seeking prosperity or success in their endeavors.
- Healing - Known for its healing properties in herbal medicine, Goldenrod represents health and recovery. As a symbol, it can be seen as an emblem of healing and support during challenging times.
WaterWater the Goldenrod 'Ledsham' deeply to encourage root development, but allow the soil to dry out somewhat between waterings. In general, this plant should be watered approximately once a week, with adjustments made for rainfall and heat conditions. Aim for about one to two gallons per watering to thoroughly saturate the root zone. During the peak of summer or in particularly hot climates, you may need to increase watering frequency. During the winter or in periods of heavy rain, reduce the amount of water to prevent overwatering and potential root rot.
LightThe Goldenrod 'Ledsham' thrives best in full sunlight, where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun each day. An ideal spot would be in an open area or in a garden where it can bask in the sun's rays without being overshadowed by taller plants or structures. Some partial shade is tolerable, especially in the hottest part of the day, but the plant's blooming may not be as prolific without full sun.
TemperatureGoldenrod 'Ledsham' can tolerate a range of temperatures and is quite hardy. It performs well in temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit but can survive in temperatures as low as 35 degrees and as high as 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant is resilient and can adapt to cooler nights and warmer days, but consistently extreme temperatures may stress the plant.
PruningPrune Goldenrod 'Ledsham' to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Deadheading spent flowers can stimulate a second bloom and prevent self-seeding if not desired. Cut the plant back by one-third after flowering to tidy it up or leave it through the winter to provide interest and benefit wildlife. The best time for major pruning is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGoldenrod 'Ledsham' thrives in well-draining soil with a mix of garden loam, peat, and sand. It prefers a soil pH between 5.5 and 7.0. Regular garden soil amended with organic matter can support healthy growth.
RepottingGoldenrod 'Ledsham' doesn't typically require frequent repotting and can thrive in the same pot for several years. Repot only if the plant becomes root-bound.
Humidity & MistingGoldenrod 'Ledsham' is adaptable and does not require any specific humidity conditions, tolerating both dry and moist air.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light and good air flow for indoor Goldenrod 'Ledsham'.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade in well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Solidago 'Ledsham', commonly known as Goldenrod 'Ledsham', begins with seed germination, where environmental conditions like moist soil and ample sunlight promote the growth of new plants. Following germination, the seedling stage involves the establishment of roots and sprouting of initial leaves as the plant begins photosynthesis. As the plant enters the vegetative stage, it produces a robust system of stems and foliage, preparing for reproduction. Coming into the flowering stage, Goldenrod 'Ledsham' develops bright yellow flower clusters, which attract pollinators and facilitate cross-pollination. Seeds are produced and dispersed following fertilization, either by wind or animal vectors, which then contribute to the establishment of new plants. The plant may then enter a period of dormancy in colder months, conserving energy to start the cycle anew when favorable conditions return.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Propogation: The Solidago 'Ledsham', commonly known as the Goldenrod, is best propagated through division, usually in the spring after the threat of frost has passed but before the new growth becomes too vigorous. To propagate by division, carefully dig up a mature plant and gently separate the root clumps into smaller sections, ensuring each section has an adequate amount of roots and shoots. These divisions can then be planted directly into the garden or into pots filled with a mix of potting soil and compost. Water the new plantings thoroughly to help establish the roots and keep them moist but not waterlogged until they are well established. It's a relatively simple process that helps maintain the health and vigor of the parent plant while creating new plants for your garden.
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